Computer Service

Computer Service, located in 74 Durham Center, helps Iowa State students, faculty, staff, and departments with a variety of hardware problems. Open weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (normal semester hours) or 7:30 am to 4:00 pm (summer hours), you can contact Computer Service at 515-294-2218 or by email at

Charges for Repair

Service charges are based on labor and parts used. Labor is charged per hour with a minimum fee. Computer Service accepts personal checks and cash or can charge a U-Bill for service performed on personal items. Intramural Purchase Orders (IPOs) are accepted as payment for departmental service. Departments that use our services extensively are encouraged to establish standing IPOs to streamline this process.

Individual customers must bring their equipment to 74 Durham Center. Departmental clients may bring their equipment in, request free pickup and delivery service using our online form, or request an on-site visit (for a fee).

Basic Troubleshooting Questions

Answers to these questions can help the service area diagnose the problem with your computer or equipment.

When did the problem first start?
Has the system ever worked properly?
What was the last thing done (to the system) prior to the failure?
Is the issue intermittent or ongoing/constant?
Are there any error messages? If so, what is/are the specific error messages?
Has any (new) hardware been added to the system?
Has any (new) software been added to the system (including downloads from the Internet)?
Has anything changed with the system (e.g., has it been moved) since the issue presented itself?
Has anyone else had access to the system?
Are there any environmental factors that could be causing the issue?
Have you done any troubleshooting on the system on your own?
Have you checked cables for a tight fit, or attempted to power cycle the equipment?

Diagnosing the Problem

Your computer can be most efficiently repaired by Computer Service when you provide as much detailed information about your computer's problem as possible. This includes listing the programs that were running when the problem occurred, as well as any error messages that appeared on the screen. It is preferred that system passwords be cleared or disabled, if possible, prior to bringing equipment to our facility.

Advanced Configurations and Networking Support

Computer Service handles problems related to configuration and networking. We can set up a client's network to communicate via Ethernet (available on campus) or via modem.

Students who wish to connect to the campus network should contact the Student Network Access Program (SNAP) team through the Solution Center, 195 Durham Center, 515-294-4000. The SNAP team is partially funded through student computer fees and helps students get connected at no charge.

Warranty Service/Vendor Partnerships

Computer Service is authorized to perform warranty service on Apple computers, Dell computers and laser printers, Gateway computers, HP/Compaq "Business" desktops, HP LaserJets and some DeskJet printers. Computer Service can facilitate the repair of HP/Compaq "Business" laptops purchased through Computer Sales. We perform post-warranty service on the above plus DEC (Digital Equipment Corporation)/Compaq workstations. We can evaluate, recommend, and install peripheral cards and drives into the supported brands mentioned above. We offer memory installation and a personal file backup service for any brand of machine.

Optimizing Service Response Time

Many and unpredictable problems can occur with hardware and software. We urge you to back up your data frequently, especially before bringing your equipment in for service. In the event that your hard drive requires reloading or replacement, having regular backups of your files greatly reduces the potential for lost data and enables us to service your machine more quickly. In the event that you will need us to reload your Operating System or device drivers, we ask that you bring in the appropriate documentation and installation media.

If you have questions, please contact us at 515-294-2218 or by email at